Miles showing off versatility for Griz

Forward helps out at multiple positions

The basketball didn't go through the hoop, but that slam attempt -- crowd gasping and all -- makes Darius Miles smile.

The 6-9 forward stripped Cleveland's Wally Szczerbiak of the ball Tuesday night at FedExForum and raced toward the Grizzlies' goal. Miles outran a trailing Szczerbiak and was alone as he elevated for a one-handed jam.

When, where: Today, 7 p.m., FedExForum

TV, radio: Fox Sports Tennessee, WRBO-FM (103.5)

"I could have really done something," Miles said, flashing a toothy grin. "That was the first time I've been on a breakaway in two years. I could have really acted a fool, but I decided to keep it simple. The ball slipped at the last minute.

"But I'm so poised and calm now that it still didn't stop me from accomplishing what I had to do on defense, and when they called plays for me."

Miles has made four baskets for the Griz in three appearances. Interestingly enough, the one that got away is what sums up how he's trying to redefine his game during a comeback attempt from major knee surgery. The sequence showed Miles' determination and drive, and an apparently improved feel for the game.

"I've learned from my mistakes," said Miles, who is on a 10-day contract with the Griz. "Once I start getting consistent minutes, it'll be like riding a bike."

Consistent minutes aren't assured, however. Injuries and foul trouble compelled Griz coach Marc Iavaroni to award Miles his ninth NBA appearance this season in the 102-87 loss to Cleveland.

But Miles has said that this comeback is about forging a constructive relationship with an NBA team, not hurting another one's finances.

He has believers among the Grizzlies.

"He has been playing very similarly in practice," Iavaroni said. "It was good to see him do it extended in a game. They had (Wally) Szczerbiak on him. We thought we should go there until they decide to make an adjustment."

Miles finished with 13 points in 14 minutes. He made four of six field goal attempts against the Cavs, including a shot over the aggressive defense of .

At one point, Miles scored 11 straight points and showed off a midrange game that, while not as scintillating as his once high-flying act, is effective.

"He's done a really good job of coming in and providing good minutes at multiple positions," Griz reserve forward Hakim Warrick said. "He's playing smarter now that he can't rely on his athleticism as much."

Miles has played well off the ball and has been most impressive with his activity on defense.

He's rebounding, blocking shots and stepping into passing lanes for steals and deflections.

"I'm quicker than power forwards. My natural position is small forward, but whatever position they give me on the court, I'll play," Miles said. "I'm going to play hard every possession. I'm going to run back on defense, rotate and do everything.

"And as long as they put me near the rim against anybody in this league I can score. The craziest part about this is nobody ever noticed my defense until now. I always thought I was one of the premier defenders in this league, especially when I was younger. Nobody's noticed until now. But I dig that part of my comeback; that people are noticing how smart I am on defense. Hey, I was always taught don't let anybody bust your (butt)."

Miles said his goal isn't just to earn a second 10-day contract from the Griz or any other team.

"I just want to get healthier. It wouldn't hurt to lose a few more pounds, but the pounds are good because I don't get beat up as much," Miles said. "I'm strong enough to take it. It's not like I'm fat. It's just that I'm bigger now.

"But I can still play to my ability. I want to get re-established in this league, get on a team and be a factor. I want to have a place to call home. I want to play for the next two or three years."